JUFOF - Issue 249 - 2020 03

Magazine Overview

Title: jufof
Issue: Nr. 249
Volume: Jg. 41
Date: 03-2020 (March 2020)
Publisher: GEP e.V.
Country: Germany
Language: German
ISSN: 0723-7766
Price: 4,50 Euro

This issue of 'jufof', the Journal für UFO-Forschung, delves into two primary areas: the historical reporting of unidentified flying objects in the German-speaking press from 1947 to 1949, and a detailed investigation into a Close Encounter of the Third Kind (CE III) that occurred in Leichlingen, Germany, in 2015.

Editorial

The editorial, penned by Danny Ammon, reflects on the significant global events of 2020, including the COVID-19 pandemic and the social movements sparked by the death of George Floyd. Ammon emphasizes the importance of social responsibility, equality, and physical and mental well-being. He then pivots to the field of UFO research, noting the potential for increased coordination in the US following a Senate committee decision. The editorial highlights that UFO phenomena have been present for over seventy years and introduces André Kramer's article on how the German-speaking press reacted to the modern UFO phenomenon in the late 1940s. It also mentions Hans-Werner Peiniger's case documentation of a 'close encounter of the third kind' for which no conventional explanation was found. Readers are encouraged to visit www.ufo-forschung.de for more current information and personal commentary.

UFO-Beobachtungen: Dokumentationen – Beurteilungen

GOOD UFO (CE III) in Leichlingen (Case File: 20150116 A)

This section details a significant UFO sighting that occurred on January 16, 2015, in Leichlingen, Germany. The report, filed by investigators Hans-Werner Peiniger and others from GEP e.V., is based on interviews with the witnesses, an elderly couple, conducted over three years after the event. The couple, who are smokers, were on their balcony around 11:30 PM when they first noticed a bright light in the southwest, initially resembling an aircraft light at a distance of about 30 km.

Suddenly, the light grew much larger and closer, approaching them slowly and silently. They then observed a large, round flying object, approximately 25 meters in height and 30 meters away, hovering silently. The craft was described as having thin wings and a dome-like top, with red lights on the underside and blinking lights on the wingtips. The husband noticed a large window in the dome, behind which he saw the silhouettes of three small, slender beings, one of whom appeared to be moving. The witnesses felt they were being observed. After about 10-15 seconds, the object slowly moved away and was obscured by buildings. The witnesses, who do not speak German fluently, reported no sound from the object. The wife initially felt fear, while the husband remained more objective. The investigation concluded that the object's characteristics did not match any known aircraft, and the intelligent behavior (positioning and tilting towards the witnesses) suggested a deliberate, intelligent presence. The case was classified as a 'GOOD UFO' with no conventional explanation found.

Discussion and Assessment of the Leichlingen Case

Investigators noted the delay in reporting the incident, a common occurrence in UFO cases, suggesting that witnesses may process such events internally before deciding to report them. To protect the witnesses' anonymity, detailed map information was withheld. The initial investigation involved a phone interview on May 29, 2018, followed by an on-site interview on September 6, 2018. The witnesses described the beings inside the craft as small, slender, and not fully human-like, with one possibly interacting with a console. The interior of the craft had a dim, unusual light. The husband's observation of the beings was more detailed than the wife's, who was distracted by the blinking lights. The report concludes that the witnesses' accounts were consistent and credible, and the anomalous characteristics of the object (sudden approach, silent operation, unusual appearance, intelligent behavior) prevent a conventional explanation.

Literature

This section includes reviews of current books related to UFOs and related topics:

• Fakten und Fiktionen (Facts and Fiction)
• DEGUFO-Jahrbuch 2019 (DEGUFO Yearbook 2019)
• UFOs, Chemtrails and Aliens

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the historical analysis of UFO reports in early post-war media and the detailed investigation of a modern, anomalous aerial phenomenon. The editorial stance, as expressed by Danny Ammon, is one of open inquiry into UFO phenomena, acknowledging their long history and the need for continued research and documentation. The magazine also touches upon broader societal issues, suggesting a view that UFO research is part of a larger context of understanding the unknown and our place in the world. The emphasis on detailed case studies and historical research indicates a commitment to rigorous investigation within the UFO community.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), Ausgabe 3-2020, Nr. 249, focuses on two main topics: a recent UFO sighting involving a light sphere and military jets, and a historical review of "flying disc" reports in the German-language press from 1947 to 1949. The magazine presents detailed investigations and historical analyses, aiming to provide context and potential explanations for these phenomena.

Lichtkugel von Militärjets begleitet (Light Sphere Accompanied by Military Jets)

The lead article details a sighting on November 2, 2018, near Düdingen, Switzerland, where a 43-year-old witness, Laurent R., observed a bright, yellowish, self-luminous light sphere accompanied by two military jets. The formation was seen flying east towards Schmitten. The witness reported the sighting via email on April 30, 2019, and the investigation was conducted by Hans-Werner Peiniger. The incident occurred between 14:00 and 15:00 CET (13:00-14:00 UTC) and lasted approximately 20 seconds. The witness filled out a questionnaire and created a photo montage reconstruction. The weather at the time was heavily overcast, contrary to the clear sky shown in the Google Street View image used for reconstruction.

Peiniger contacted the Swiss Air Traffic Control (Skyguide) and the Swiss Department of Defence. Skyguide did not respond, but the "Head of Communication Command Operations" informed them that the Swiss Air Force had been conducting low-altitude interception exercises in the area on that day. The witness stated that the object was self-luminous and that the jets were clearly audible.

Further investigation by Peiniger suggests the sighting was likely a Pilatus PC-7 training aircraft. The PC-7 has a large, fully glazed canopy that could reflect sunlight, appearing as a bright object. Astronomical calculations for November 2, 2018, at 14:30 indicated the sun was at an azimuth of 215° and an altitude of 21°. The principle of equal angles of incidence and reflection would mean that sunlight reflecting off the PC-7's canopy could be directed towards the witness. Given the overcast conditions, local cloud breaks could have allowed sunlight to strike the aircraft. Peiniger concludes that the witness most likely perceived the Pilatus PC-7 as a "yellowish shining light sphere" due to strong sunlight reflection, deeming it not a UFO in the strict sense.

Erscheinungen mit "Landespuren" (Appearances with "Landing Traces")

This section, authored by Ulrich Magin, discusses a new development in phenomena research: three cases where supernatural interventions allegedly left markings on the ground resembling traditional UFO landing traces.

1. The "Rasenkreuz" (Grass Cross) of Eisenberg, Austria: Aloisia Lex reported seeing the Virgin Mary on October 8, 1954, and an angel on September 6, 1956, in Eisenberg. Between 1956 and 1992, a mysterious, approximately 120 cm large cross-shaped marking appeared in the grass on her property.
2. Argenbühl-Meggen, Germany: A similar "grass cross" appeared on June 30, 1972, in Argenbühl-Meggen. It was discovered by a farmer and later identified as a cross. Investigations by the University of Hohenheim found no anomalies, and the Diocese of Rottenburg-Stuttgart did not recognize it as a miracle. A theory suggested the soil was over-fertilized, preventing growth.
3. Beyenburg, Germany: On December 26, 2008, during a chapel pilgrimage, a participant reported seeing a circle with an equal-armed cross in the snow near the St. Maria im Schnee chapel in Beyenburg. This led to the construction of the chapel, consecrated on September 11, 2009.

The article references sources for these cases, including Wikipedia and books on celestial signs.

Die "fliegenden Scheiben" in der deutschsprachigen Presse 1947 bis 1949 (The "Flying Discs" in the German-language Press 1947 to 1949)

Authored by André Kramer, this extensive article examines the reception of UFO sightings, which began in the USA in June 1947, in the German-speaking press. The phenomenon was initially termed "fliegende Scheiben" (flying discs) and later "fliegende Untertassen" (flying saucers).

The article reviews press articles from Germany, Austria, and Luxembourg, presenting them chronologically. It notes that while the UFO topic has been a constant presence in the media, its popularity has waned in print, shifting to the internet.

Key reports from 1947 include:

• July 7, 1947: Reports from New York and Westfälischer Kurier mention a wave of sightings in the USA, highlighting incredible flight characteristics and the US Air Force's efforts to pursue the objects with fighter jets. Theories about experimental aircraft and the potential influence of US atomic bomb tests are mentioned.
• July 7, 1947 (Wiener Kurier): Describes objects as glittering, sometimes luminous discs moving at high speed and altitude. A photo from a passenger plane crew showed only a luminous spot. The Navy denied experiments as the cause, and the Air Force prepared fighter jets.
• July 9, 1947 (Neue Zeit): Reports unsettling sightings of metallic discs since June 24, 1947, often described as silent, fast-moving, and high-flying.
• July 9, 1947 (Welt am Abend): Suggests a harmless explanation, with Captain G. F. Haist identifying a supposed flying saucer near Corona, New Mexico, as a weather balloon.
• July 9, 1947 (Freiburger Nachrichten): Reports the US Air Force finding a "flying saucer" near Roswell, New Mexico, which was then examined by the Army.
• July 14, 1947 (Wiener Kurier): Mentions sightings in Rome and Mukden, China, with 80 "flying discs" observed over Mukden, described as milky-colored, flying in formation, and approximately 1.20 meters in diameter. A Dutch engineer proposed they were meteorites reflecting sunlight.
• July 16, 1947 (Welt am Abend): Reports sightings over Biarritz, France, with two flying saucers seen over the sea.
• July 26, 1947 (Unterkärtner Nachrichten): Reports four observers in Birmingham, UK, saw objects in a stormy sky.
• July 31, 1948 (Tageblatt): A "flying saucer" was sighted near Naples, described as glowing blue and moving slowly.
• August 14, 1948 (Welt am Abend): Reports of "flying saucers" over Austria, with sightings in the Mühlviertel region described as rotating objects moving from east to west.
• August 4, 1947 (Welt am Abend): The article "Flying Saucers Cause Metal Rain" suggests government cover-ups. It describes a B25 bomber crash where unusual metal was found, and a ship captain Harold Dahl reported seeing a flying saucer from which a metallic rain fell, killing his dog and damaging his ship. The metal was identified as a heavy metal with high electrical resistance.
• August 5, 1947 (Badische Neueste Nachrichten): Reports on UFO sightings spreading to Denmark, with objects observed at speeds of 500-2,000 km/h at altitudes up to 3,000 meters.
• August 10, 1947 (Neues Österreich): A luminous white sphere was observed over Florence, Italy, resembling a comet with a tail.
• July 12, 1947 (Westfälische Nachrichten): Reports that "flying discs" causing public concern in the USA had turned out to be weather balloons.
• October 29, 1949 (Tageblatt): A comprehensive article questions earthly explanations for UFOs, mentioning new aircraft types like the Northrop YB-49. It also briefly touches upon theories of extraterrestrial origins, reincarnation, and UFO bases in Antarctica proposed by researcher Robert Ernst Dickhoff.

Kramer notes that the press treated the topic cautiously in 1947, avoiding definitive judgments. The Roswell incident is highlighted as being frequently and calmly reported, though its later popularity as a UFO classic emerged in the 1980s. The article points out that the variety of anomalous characteristics associated with UFO experiences evolved over time, initially focusing on disc shapes, high altitude, and speed. The "metal rain" incident in August 1947 is noted as an early exception, hinting at potential military cover-ups. The geographical spread of sightings also increased, moving from North America to other countries. Kramer suggests this could be due to increased media attention leading observers to interpret phenomena as UFOs, or people becoming more willing to report sightings. Another possibility is that the phenomenon itself spread from the USA.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue are the investigation of specific UFO sightings, the historical analysis of UFO reporting in the media, and the exploration of unexplained phenomena with potential physical traces. The editorial stance appears to be one of critical inquiry, seeking rational explanations (like aircraft reflections or weather balloons) while also acknowledging the persistent mystery and historical significance of UFO reports. The journal aims to document and analyze these events, providing a platform for detailed case studies and historical research within the field of ufology.

This issue of JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG (Journal for UFO Research), Volume NR. 249, dated AUSGABE 3-2020, published by the DEUTSCHSPRACHIGE GESELLSCHAFT FÜR UFO FORSCHUNG E.V. (German-Speaking Society for UFO Research), focuses on current UFO-related news and in-depth reviews of literature concerning alternative archaeology and pseudoscience.

Current Reports

The section "Kurz notiert Aktuelle Meldungen" (Briefly Noted Current Reports) highlights a significant development: the US Senate Select Committee on Intelligence (SSCI) has approved an overarching program for the investigation of unidentified phenomena in airspace. This initiative, part of the 2021 intelligence budget, includes the establishment of an "Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon Task Force" and mandates a report from various congressional committees, intelligence agencies, and military branches. The underlying motivation appears to be the identification of potential aerial threats posed by other nations, given the current lack of a coordinated approach among US agencies.

Literature Reviews

"Fakten und Fiktionen: Archäologie vs. Pseudowissenschaft" (Facts and Fictions: Archaeology vs. Pseudoscience)

This extensive review section critically examines the book edited by Stefan Baumann. The reviewer expresses initial disappointment, noting that despite Baumann's expertise, the book offers little new information and sometimes presents superficial analyses. The book is structured around various contributions that tackle different aspects of alternative archaeology, Atlantology, and pseudoarchaeology.

• Stefan Baumann's Foreword: The book originated from a seminar at the University of Tübingen on "Riddles" and "Myths" of prehistory, contrasting pseudoarchaeology with science.
• Baumann's Contribution: Analyzes the patterns of alternative archaeological authors who take structures and finds out of context, creating mysteries through selective presentation. The reviewer finds this analysis repetitive and superficial, citing Maria Reiche's work from 1970. Baumann's discussion of Erich von Däniken's theories on the Nazca lines is also critiqued for not reflecting Däniken's later, more nuanced explanations.
• The Berliner "Goldhut" (Golden Hat): The review discusses Baumann's identification of the interpretations of this Bronze Age artifact as pseudoscientific, arguing that numbers are manipulated to fit desired conclusions.
• Markus Bittermann on Pseudoarchaeology: This contribution provides an overview of how archaeological findings are distorted in the name of politics or religion, using the Externsteine as an example of its misuse during the Nazi era.
• Jonas Apele on Media and Archaeology: Examines the mediatization of archaeological finds, using a bog body found in Uchter Moor as a case study. Apele discusses how media patterns can lead to distortions, prioritizing sensationalism over factual reporting.
• Gerlinde Bigga on Comparative Anatomy: Explores how fossil finds have led to various interpretations throughout history, often influenced by prevailing superstitions before the advent of scientific methodology.
• Annika Rebentisch on Cave Paintings: Addresses alternative interpretations of Paleolithic cave paintings, particularly the idea that lens-shaped figures represent UFOs. Rebentisch argues that these are naturalistic depictions and that the apparent symmetry is often a result of manipulation.
• Joscha Gretzinger on Genetics: Discusses the shift from racial ideology to scientifically grounded anthropology, debunking various myths.
• Stefan Baumann on Egyptology: Critiques common pseudoscientific interpretations of Egyptian artifacts like the Dendera "light bulbs" and Abydos hieroglyphs, noting that these refutations are often old and not widely known in popular circles.
• Simon Herdt on Zecharia Sitchin: Critically analyzes Zecharia Sitchin's work, particularly his "12th Planet" theory, arguing that Sitchin lacks the necessary qualifications and misinterprets cuneiform texts.
• Stephen W. E. Blum on Atlantis: Reviews the history of Atlantis research, from Plato's accounts to modern theories, including Dieter Bremer's idea of Atlantis as a space station. Blum focuses on Eberhard Zangger's theory that Atlantis was ancient Troy, concluding that Zangger's hypothesis requires selective use of Plato's information and has been largely refuted by archaeological findings.

The reviewer concludes that while the book is interesting, it offers little new for seasoned researchers and some analyses are superficial. However, it is recommended for newcomers to the field due to the availability of sources that are otherwise hard to find.

DEGUFO Yearbook 2019

This section reviews the "DEGUFO-Jahrbuch 2019" (DEGUFO Yearbook 2019), compiled by Marius Kettmann, who has stepped down as editor. The yearbook contains several notable contributions:

• Walter Andritzky on Pilot Sightings: Andritzky investigates pilot UFO sightings, concluding that they are rare and only occur when UFOs are very close, large, or exhibit visual effects. He notes that pilots are not obligated to report such sightings, leading to a high potential for underreporting (estimated at 5-10% reported). Andritzky suggests adding "unidentifiable object" to reporting forms and proposes other measures for investigation, which the reviewer deems unrealistic.
• Pilot Survey on UFOs and Flight Safety: A qualitative survey of pilots regarding UFOs and flight safety is presented. The author, Walter Andritzky, found the results interesting and informative.
• Peter Hattwig on Crop Circles and Camera Malfunctions: Hattwig attempts to explain camera malfunctions in crop circle locations. The reviewer finds his explanations, which involve "ether substances" and "electropolisma," to be absurd.
• Christian Czech's Case Compilations: This part of the yearbook presents cases compiled by Christian Czech, with no satisfactory explanations found for many of them, including sightings of triangular or box-shaped craft. The reviewer notes that these are presented as mere accounts without detailed analysis.
• Abduction Phenomenon Report: A witness recounts an abduction experience from 1980, which was later investigated through hypnosis. The account includes typical abduction elements such as examination tables and alien beings, and the discovery of an implant.
• Jens Waldeck on Cognitive Science and UFOs: Waldeck explores how cognitive science can enhance the understanding of extraterrestrial contact, suggesting methods for expanding consciousness to better perceive and describe interactions with "others of extraterrestrial origin."
• Roland Horn on Rendlesham Forest: Horn summarizes Jacques Vallée's and Frank Schwede's work on the Rendlesham Forest incident, dismissing a lighthouse as a possible explanation and suggesting a secret US anti-gravity aircraft.
• Klaus Deistung on "Anti-UFOlogy" in Germany: Deistung describes a frustrated witness whose UFO photos were classified as model hot-air balloons by CENAP.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The journal consistently adopts a critical stance towards pseudoscientific claims in archaeology and UFOlogy, while also reporting on current developments in official investigations. The reviews emphasize the importance of rigorous scientific methodology and evidence-based reasoning, often debunking popular theories that lack empirical support. There is a clear distinction made between established scientific research and speculative or unsubstantiated claims. The editorial stance favors critical analysis and a grounded approach to the study of unexplained phenomena.

This issue of the "JOURNAL FÜR UFO-FORSCHUNG" (Journal for UFO Research), dated Ausgabe 3-2020, Nr. 249, is primarily dedicated to a critical review of the book "UFOs, Chemtrails and Aliens: What Science Says" by Donald R. Prothero and Timothy D. Callahan. The journal also features a historical examination of airship sightings and aeronautics from 1896 to 1915, edited by Ulrich Magin.

Book Review: "UFOs, Chemtrails and Aliens: What Science Says"

The review begins by introducing the authors, Donald R. Prothero, a geologist and paleontologist known for his work in evolutionary research and his involvement with skeptical societies, and Timothy D. Callahan, an actor and former editor for Skeptic Magazine. The book itself is presented as a skeptical look at anomalous phenomena.

Prothero's background in cryptozoology and skepticism is highlighted, noting his previous works on the origins of cryptids and the threats posed by science deniers. Callahan's experience in the animation industry and his role as editor for Skeptic Magazine are also mentioned. The book's foreword is by Michael Shermer, founder of the Skeptic Society.

The reviewer expresses initial skepticism towards the book, partly due to accusations against Shermer and partly due to Prothero's past remarks, such as equating UFO beliefs with Holocaust denial. Prothero's assertion that it's hard to believe people in the US, with its high living standards and education system, would still believe in UFOs, astrology, and Bigfoot is noted.

The book is described as well-written and its arguments are generally easy to follow. It aims to explain why various anomalous topics are not taken seriously by mainstream science. The topics covered are broad, including UFOs, abductions, sects, crop circles, and Paleo-SETI.

Positive aspects of the book are found in chapters where the authors are in their element. For instance, the chapter on "Alien Skulls," discussing the "Star Child" and "long-necked skulls," is praised for Prothero's knowledge and ability to clarify these cases, exploring their potential connection to extraterrestrials or hybrids, and considering the role of diseases and cults.

The book also provides interesting information on UFO cults and sects, detailing various mythologies associated with UFO contactees and groups like Ashtar Galactic Command, Fiat Lux, FIGU, and Scientology. Callahan's work in this area is commended for tracing developmental paths and connections.

The chapter "Are they out there?" benefits from Prothero's background in evolutionary research, offering a speculative but engaging description of how potential extraterrestrials might have evolved and appeared. However, the reviewer notes that the authors' thesis that humans are likely the only intelligent beings is a tolerable but unproven theory.

Despite these strengths, the reviewer finds other topics in the book more problematic. The authors' assertion that a scientific expert is only an expert in their field, and a layman in others, is acknowledged, but the reviewer points out that this can lead to a lack of depth, as seen in the UFO sections. The reviewer criticizes the book for often using "UFO" as a synonym for alien spacecraft and for referring to "UFO believers" repeatedly.

A significant criticism is leveled at the book's methodology, particularly in its treatment of UFO topics. The reviewer states that the book often appears biased and lacks a thorough discussion of sources. Specific examples include the treatment of the Rendlesham and Roswell incidents, where the literature is vast, but the book's cited sources are selective. The reviewer notes that for the Rendlesham incident, books by Pope, Burroughs, Penniston, Warren, Robbins, and Bruni are not cited, and for Roswell, only three of eighteen sources are considered relevant for a UFO crash.

The reviewer also takes issue with the authors' insinuation that Kevin Randle and Donald Schmitt wrote "The Truth about the UFO Crash at Roswell" purely for profit, calling this a questionable and immoral assumption. The book's critique of the Area 51 claims, based on Prothero's father's alleged dismissal of UFOs at the base, is also questioned.

Chapters on Chemtrails and Crop Circles are found to be interesting, with Prothero's meteorological knowledge being helpful for the Chemtrails section. The explanations regarding crop circles are deemed insightful, though more depth would have been beneficial.

The Paleo-SETI chapter is considered well-done, examining topics like the Nazca Lines, the Baghdad Battery, the Delhi Iron Pillar, and mysterious crystal skulls. However, the conclusions drawn may not always be shared by the reader.

Overall, the book is described as an interesting snapshot of anomalous topics from a skeptical viewpoint, comparable to Carl Sagan's "The Demon-Haunted World." It is well-illustrated with graphics and includes a 15-page bibliography that allows for tracing the authors' sources. The reviewer points out that while the book cites various sources for the Rendlesham incident, it omits key works, and for Roswell, it selectively includes sources, particularly questioning the inclusion of Berlitz/Moore as evidence for a crash.

The reviewer suggests that the authors would have been better advised to adhere to Michael Shermer's quote in the foreword: "The U just means unidentified – nothing more. And in science it is always acceptable to say I don't know." Instead, the book frequently equates UFOs with alien spacecraft and uses the term "UFO believers."

The reviewer concludes that the book has its strengths and weaknesses. While parts are clear and interesting, it should be approached with caution. It is considered a good overview of the skeptical perspective on anomalous themes.

Book: "Luftschiffe und Aeronauten: Eine historische Betrachtung des Luftschiffphänomens 1896 bis 1915"

This section introduces a book edited by Ulrich Magin, focusing on the historical phenomenon of airships and aeronautics between 1896 and 1915. The book explores the wave of airship sightings that occurred, particularly on the American West Coast, and the speculation surrounding them, ranging from secret human inventors to extraterrestrial spacecraft. A significant portion of UFO researchers believe these observations are connected to the modern UFO phenomenon.

The table of contents lists contributions from Jerome Clark on "Luftschiffe" (Airships), Loren E. Gross on "UFOs: Eine Historie - 1896" (UFOs: A History - 1896), Nigel Watson on "Zeppeline der Angst" (Zeppelins of Fear), and Ulrich Magin on "Airships - Eine 'moderne' Sage" (Airships - A 'modern' Saga). An appendix covers airship sightings in Germany and the early 20th century.

The book is described as 122 pages, paperback, DIN A5 size, illustrated, with ISBN 978-3-923862-58-0, priced at 10.00 € (8.00 € for GEP members). Orders can be placed through the GEP-Shop or via mail.

GEP and the Journal für UFO-Forschung

The journal "jufof" (Journal für UFO-Forschung) has been accompanying the UFO phenomenon factually and critically since 1980. As the official publication of the GEP (Gesellschaft zur Erforschung des UFO-Phänomens), it dedicates a part of each issue to documenting received sighting reports, their classification, and associated case investigations. The second part of each "jufof" contains competent technical reports on the UFO phenomenon, case studies, and international reports and analyses, written in a scientific-methodical style. The journal is rounded off with a review and letters to the editor section.

The GEP itself is described as the largest non-profit scientific organization in Germany dedicated to UFO research. It investigates UFO reports using special questionnaires, on-site interviews, and field investigations, supported by numerous authorities and scientific institutions.

The journal also provides information on how to report UFO sightings, including a hotline number and an email address. It encourages readers to visit their websites for more information and to participate in their web forum or chat.

Recurring Themes and Editorial Stance

The recurring themes in this issue revolve around the critical examination of UFO phenomena and related anomalous topics. There is a clear emphasis on a scientific and skeptical approach, as evidenced by the detailed review of Prothero and Callahan's book. The journal promotes rigorous research methods, source criticism, and a distinction between scientific inquiry and unsubstantiated speculation. The GEP's stance is one of serious, interdisciplinary investigation into UFO reports, aiming for objective analysis and avoiding sensationalism. The historical perspective on airship sightings also serves to contextualize early aerial phenomena that might be misinterpreted as modern UFOs.